Religion News: Priest sex abuse panel to continue without victims

Thursday

Mar 30, 2017 at 2:01 AM

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WEEK IN RELIGIONPope Francis’ Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors will continue its work despite a second abuse survivor recently resigned from the panel. Irish abuse survivor Marie Collins resigned her position on the panel on March 1 after what she called “shameful” resistance to commission proposals from the Vatican’s doctrinal office. British abuse survivor Peter Saunders resigned from the commission a year ago after publicly calling for Australian Cardinal George Pell, who serves at the Vatican’s finance chief, to be dismissed after reports surfaced that he had protected pedophile priests in Australia. Despite Collins’ and Saunders’ resignations, the commission said that victims of abuse should have a voice. “Commission members have unanimously agreed to find new ways to ensure its work is shaped and informed with and by victims/survivors,” the commission said in a statement. Boston Cardinal and Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors head Sean O’Malley said the commission is discussing whether or not to include survivors on the panel in the future. “We’re grappling with that right now as a commission. Perhaps having survivors who were known as survivors was part of the reason they got so much attention.” The commission also expressed support for Collins and members of the commission said they endorsed her criticism of the doctrine office.— More Content Now

SURVEY SAYSReligion playing a role in views of TrumpAccording to a recent Gallup Poll, religiosity is playing a role in the views of President Donald Trump. According to the poll, off those who identify themselves as highly religious, 51 percent approve of the job Trump has done as president. Moderately religious people gave Trump a 44 percent job approval rating, while “not religious” people gave Trump a 32 percent approval rating. — More Content Now

GOOD BOOK?“Between Heaven and the Real World: My Story” by Steven Curtis Chapman and Ken AbrahamFor decades, Steven Curtis Chapman’s music and message have brought hope and inspiration to millions around the world. Now, for the first time, Steven openly shares the experiences that have shaped him, his faith, and his music in a life that has included incredible highs and faith-shaking lows. Readers will be captivated by this exclusive look into Steven’s childhood and challenging family dynamic growing up, how that led to music and early days on the road, his wild ride to the top of the charts, his relationship with wife Mary Beth, and the growth of their family through births and adoptions. In addition to inside stories from his days of youth to his notable career, including the background to some of his best-loved songs, readers will walk with Steven down the devastating road of loss after the tragic death of five-year-old daughter Maria. And they’ll experience his return to the stage after doubting he could ever sing again.— Revell

THE WORDcelebrant: One who conducts a religious rite, especially a Christian priest.— ReligionStylebook.com